The Federal Government has commenced the evacuation of Nigerians from Iran, facilitating their safe passage across the Armenian border as regional stability continues to deteriorate.
The move comes in response to the escalating Middle East crisis, which intensified following coordinated military strikes on Iran by the United States and Israel on February 28. These events triggered a wave of retaliatory missile and drone attacks, sparking global fears of a full-scale regional conflict.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), confirmed the operation via her X handle on Tuesday. She stated that officials from the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran are actively coordinating the exit of citizens who wish to leave, ensuring they are “escorted across the Armenian border” to safety. This proactive measure aims to protect Nigerians residing in the volatile region before the situation worsens.
In a reassuring update, Dabiri-Erewa noted that “no Nigerian in Iran has been affected by the war” thus far. Embassy staff remain stationed at the border to receive and assist all evacuees, providing a critical lifeline for those caught in the crossfire of the growing geopolitical tension. The government’s swift action reflects its readiness to “adjust policies as Middle East crisis deepens,” prioritizing the welfare of its citizens abroad.
As the situation in the Middle East remains unpredictable, the safety of foreign nationals has become a primary concern for many governments. For now, the Nigerian mission in Tehran continues to monitor the border, remaining on high alert to assist any remaining citizens who decide to opt for evacuation.